NEW SELF Meal Plans

Newsletter

The Denim Doctor: 5 Tips to Wash Jeans the Right Way

While these ladies in the picture might've seen denim as a utilitarian work pant, the evolution of jeans into fashion staples means we need to do more than just stick them in the wash and on the line to keep...

While these ladies in the picture might've seen denim as a utilitarian work pant, the evolution of jeans into fashion staples means we need to do more than just stick them in the wash and on the line to keep them runway (okay, girl's night out) ready.

Don't wash your jeans after every wash! I wear my jeans at least 3 times before I wash them again. Spritz with fabric freshener like Febreeze in between wears.

Dark denim has an annoying tendency to dye your hands and other things blue (I ruined a beloved tan suede fringe bag due to the bag rubbing against my indigo wash skinny jeans!). A helpful hint: The first time you wash your jeans, add 1/2 cup of white vinegar and a pinch of baking soda to the washer. It will help set the color so they don't bleed and fade as much.

It is always best to hang dry denim, because this will prolong the life of your favorite jeans. Dryer heat can sap color, shrink fabric and break down stretch fibers found in many styles. Some people want their jeans to tighten back up after heavy wear. I suggest hang drying them and then just placing them in the dryer for 10 - 15 minutes. The heat will tighten your jeans up, without putting them through the dryer for the full amount of time.